Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Our tough girl

Our tough girl has been through a lot in the last 24 hours.  We are hoping the worst is behind us.  Last night when Ashlynn was running a high fever, our plastic surgeon had a chest x-ray and called in a Pediatric Pulmonary doctor to review it.  He saw the potential start of some fluid on the lungs but nothing too concerning.  As a precautionary measure, he ordered some IV antibiotics and nebulizer treatments.
It was a long night as Ashlynn just couldn't rest comfortably.  It has taken some trial and error (and really helpful nurse) to get the right combination and timing of pain meds.  She is wearing "No-Nos" (that's really what they are called) to keep her from putting her fingers in her mouth.  The lack of mobility is really frustrating for her.  She also needs oxygen as she is having to re-train her body to inhale and exhale.  When her lip and palate were open, there was little resistance to move air.  Now that her cleft has been closed, her diaphragm has to work hard to move the air.  There was a seemingly endless stream of nurses coming in and out of Ashlynn's room.  She is unhappy with every unfamiiar face.  This all meant a sleepless night.
Ashlynn has been able to sleep a bit better this morning.  She was happy to see her Dad when he returned this morning after going home last night to be with Derek and Mason.  We're hoping some more sleep will help her be willing to try some pureed food today.  She has been good about drinking clear liquids from a bottle with a special nipple.  Eating from a spoon is another important milestone before we are able to go home.
Thanks again for all the support of our family!

2 comments:

  1. I feel so... very sorry for your poor little girl but in the big picture she will be so much better off. Keep giving her lots of hugs and kisses from us. Jeanne

    ReplyDelete
  2. We are praying that you are getting the much needed rest this afternoon. There are so many new things for Ashlynn to learn and it will all be great in the end. We are thinking of you often - thanks for the updates.

    We love you all!
    Jennifer, Jeff, Kendra & Kristen

    ReplyDelete